A simple framework to solve complex problems like an expert generalist
Sometimes finding the right way to solve the problem is more challenging than the problem itself.
When first encountering a problem as you’re building your startup, your knee-jerk response is likely to solve it quickly and by all means necessary to prevent a major slowdown. But how a problem is solved matters as much as actually solving it. Even with all the caveats that every situation is unique, any solution you reach sets a precedent. That shortcut you meant to only take once can quickly become the status quo.
how DO you make sure you’re solving the root cause of startup problems so that persistent issues don’t put a stranglehold on your team’s resources and limited time?
Zoom out to see problems. Zoom in to solve problems.
Why This Works
Expert generalists can multitask, prioritize, and communicate. They serve as the glue to the team. Some problems they can solve on their own, others they’ll delegate or engage help. But one thing remains certain - an expert generalist can zoom out and zoom in while flexing into various departments to support the team and strategically solve problems. By getting good at this generalist skill, you’ll hone an intuitive approach to reaching solutions and harness a natural way to find a solution.
Why Do This Now
At scaling speed, it’s barely possible to start and end back-to-back meetings on time, let alone thoughtfully and calmly consider the ideal ways to solve complex problems. Adopting the quick framework here early will allow you to become your company’s greatest asset, the MVP-s (Most Valuable Problem-solver), a team detective who can see around corners, see through excuses, and see into the true issues that are causing problems in the first place. When a problem arises, ask yourself, “Am I seeing the entire picture here? Is there anything else that might be causing this problem to occur?”, and, “Am I providing a surface-level solution, or have I gone deep enough to create a solution that sticks?”.
how We Do: Lean on problem-solving frameworks that combine big-picture thinking and focused execution
Tools 🛠️
Seeing the problem:
Try a whiteboarding tool like Miro or Pallet or a collaboration tool like Figma. Often the most complex part of the problem is that part of it that is living in the corners of your mind. Seeing it, visually in a different way, can often allow portions of the problem to become more clear.
Create a network map. This will not only allow you to see the problem but the interconnected points between problems.
Solving the problem:
When you think you’ve come up with a solution, try a 5 Whys Exercise, asking yourself “Why will this work?” five consecutive times. Is your solution as iron-clad as you think?
Document problem-solving decisions in a tool such as Hoop, Notion, or Slack for historical record-keeping.
Look for common themes to codify SOPs.
Rules (Process) 📝
Seeing the problem:
Be sequential in your methods. See -- then solve (not the other way around).
Document document document. Ensure the scenario you’re writing down represents the full picture so all nuance is captured in a form that lives outside of your head.
Solving the problem:
People 📝
Seeing the problem:
Make sure all voices are heard. Have a 5-minute conversation with a team member who is on the fringe of the problem. How are they affected by the problem? What will be the effect on them of the solution?
Step away from your inherent biases here. You may have strong emotions about the problem, what you’ve seen in the past, and how it affects you. All problems are multi-people problems, so remember that your opinion may not be the opinion of others. Think strong opinions, loosely held.
Facts are key, but opinions matter too. Despite the facts that guide the solution, understanding opinions will help you better communicate the solution to those who need to hear it and increase the odds of avoiding the same problem in the future.
Solving the problem:
See the problem from all sides by reviewing notes from team meetings and 1:1s to level up your solution-sleuthing.
Lead by example. When solving the problem, consider executing and communicating solutions in a way your team can emulate. Remember - ideas are great, but execution is magic.
Tackle problems head-on, don’t let them fester. If there’s an issue impeding your team’s progress, the more directly you address it will help avoid any negative habits being adapted to work around it.
Overcommunicate. From your vantage point, you may see the larger impact of problems most clearly. Making sure to communicate what’s happening and why it is something that needs to be addressed will get everyone on the same page. And by sharing your logic with your team, you’re also teaching them how to identify similar issues themselves.
Actually Actionable
Nice article. Now what?
We’ve taken the ideas above and created a ten-minute action plan for you and your team.
Step 1: Deep breath. Solve the problem with a calm nervous system and the clearest head that you can. (10s)
Step 2: Document the problem. Spend a quick two minutes writing down what you think the problem is. What’s in your head might look different than what’s on paper. (1 min 50s)
Step 3: See the problem. Use the framework above to quickly see the entire problem and its interconnected parts. The more you see, the easier it will be to solve. (5 min)
Step 4: Solve the problem. Consider your options and (this is the big one) be decisive on the best path forward. Be okay with imperfect solutions as long as they drive action. (2 min)
Step 5: Communicate the Solution. This one is crucial. Don’t leave this one to “I-heard-it-through-the-grapevine”. Ensure all those who will be affected by the solution understand the decision path forward. Write it down, and let everyone know where it’s written. Be transparent if it’s a short-term solution versus a proposed long-term plan. Both are valid, as long as you let others know what’s in your head and why. (1 min)
Before you go
When faced with complex problems, especially in a startup, remember to pause and strategically identify the issue before diving into action. By focusing on the ability to communicate effectively and multitask, you and your team can become problem-solving experts. Nurture those skills early and often to become your company's MVP-s (Most Valuable Problem-solver), someone who can uncover root causes and implement lasting solutions while establishing the tone for the rest of the team.
Writer: Britt